7 Churches Cappadocia (Extended)

After breakfast, we leave the hotel. By visiting the Konya Archaeological Museum, we will examine the artifacts brought from Lystra and Derbe. Lystra and Derbe, two important cities located in the ancient region of Pisidia, are especially significant in terms of Christian history, and were involved in the missionary activities of Saint Paul and Barnabas.

	(Acts 14:6-7) “… Paul and Barnabas fled to the cities of Lystra and Derbe in Lycaonia and to the surrounding region, where they continued to preach the gospel.” For this reason, Lystra and Derbe are considered important settlements in early Christian history.
	Then, we will go to Sultan Han Caravanserai, one of the greatest works of the Seljuk period.
	After lunch, we will set out for Cappadocia. Upon our arrival in Cappadocia, we will first visit the Underground City of Saint Mercurius, built by Christians who fled Roman persecution in the mid-3rd century.
	Saint Mercurius was a commander who lived between the years 225-250. He was born in the region of Cappadocia during the Roman Empire, and after declaring that he was a Christian, he was exiled to Cappadocia by the king. The underground city has 7 levels. 3 of the city's levels have been cleaned and opened to tourism.
	We spend the night in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia is a region that emerged as a result of the erosion over millions of years of soft layers formed by lava and ash erupted from Erciyes, Hasandağ, and Göllüdağ 60 million years ago by rain and wind. The name Cappadocia is first seen in Persian sources dating back to the 6th century B.C. The origin of this name, referred to as Katpatuka, is uncertain. Some experts have suggested that it means "Low Country" in the Luwian language. But later research shows that the adverb "katta," meaning "down, below," is Hittite, and the Luwian equivalent is "zanta."

	Those who wish (optionally) can start the day by watching the sunrise with a Balloon Tour.
	After our breakfast, we will visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, where we will see magnificent Christian frescoes inside the rock churches.
	Then we go to Avanos, where pottery and ceramic masters are located. Here, enjoying the panoramic view of the Kızılırmak River, which is considered sacred, we will visit the ceramic workshops.
	After having lunch in a local restaurant, we will go to the Zelve Valley where monasteries are located.
	We will have dinner and overnight stay in Cappadocia.

On the last day, we provide your transfer to Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport and send you off to Istanbul for your return flight.